Time to read
Our CEO, Robbie Currie, comments on the latest UKHSA’s HIV data:
“These latest HIV statistics give us reason to be hopeful that the UK can reach the goal of ending new HIV transmissions by 2030, but only with the right commitments, resources and actions that are needed to respond to the stubborn inequalities that are still present in the HIV response.
“We welcome a decrease in the number of newly diagnosed people in the UK – but we have much more to do to find the estimated 5,000 people who are living with HIV but are not yet diagnosed. There are also encouraging signs that there is progress overall in the two key areas of HIV prevention – testing, and uptake in PrEP. However, that progress is not equal, and for some key population groups it is clear that much more needs to be done: the decrease in HIV testing for younger people is concerning, and the system is failing to adequately meet the needs of Black African men and women, who have the lowest level of PrEP uptake and higher rates of late diagnosis.
“Advances in HIV treatment, care and prevention have provided us with the right tools to end new HIV transmissions – Government must now seize this opportunity to ensure they reach everybody. The new HIV Action Plan expected later this year has to deliver on commitments made, particularly in addressing persistent inequalities. It must initiate the actions and interventions that will make a real difference for the people, who continue to experience the worst outcomes.
“The 2030 goals are underpinned by a commitment to leaving no one behind, and the data released today clearly shows us where action and resources must be targeted to achieve this.”